Summary

In this episode, Will speaks with Joseph Fontenot, author of 'Sons of the Argandab', about his experiences in Afghanistan, the importance of storytelling for veterans, and the impact of war on mental health. They discuss the bonds formed in combat, the challenges of writing about traumatic experiences, and the necessity of community support for veterans.

Joseph shares his journey of writing the book, the therapeutic process it provided, and the ongoing struggles with mental health within the veteran community.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help and the collective responsibility of supporting one another.

Resources

Buy Sons of the Arghandab Book (Amazon)

Instagram

Facebook Group

Casemate Publishers

Buy The Devils Playground Book

Buy Damn the Valley Book

Takeaways

The call to duty often leads to profound experiences on the battlefield.

Storytelling is crucial for preserving the legacy of those who served.

Brotherhood formed in combat creates lasting bonds among soldiers.

Writing about war can be therapeutic but also challenging.

Mental health issues persist long after deployment ends.

Community support is vital for veterans facing mental health challenges.

Leadership in the military involves looking out for the well-being of others.

Healing from trauma is a journey that requires support and understanding.

Veteran narratives are essential for understanding the complexities of war.

Stronger together: the importance of camaraderie and support in the veteran community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joseph Fontenot and His Journey

08:56 Creating the Sons of the Argandab Community

18:18 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

23:49 Intertwining Stories: The Connection Between Books

31:29 The Therapeutic Process of Writing

37:50 Facing Trauma Through Storytelling

44:36 Setting the Record Straight

51:33 The Weight of Trauma

01:02:58 Reaching Out for Help

01:13:08 Building Camaraderie and Brotherhood

01:22:19 The Legacy of Stories and Memories

01:25:49 Outro

01:27:17 Promoting Veteran Literature and Audiobooks

Keywords

veteran stories, mental health, Afghanistan, brotherhood, storytelling, legacy, support systems, healing, military experience, combat narratives

Summary

In this episode of Veteran Success Story, Will reflects on the current state of chaos and uncertainty in society, discussing the implications of political division, immigration issues, and the importance of community action. He emphasizes the need for individuals to stand up for their values and to be proactive in their communities, rather than relying solely on leadership from above. Will encourages listeners to remain true to their beliefs and to resist being swayed by external influences.

Takeaways

Stand for what's right and what you know to be true.

Don't let outside influence push you towards anger.

It's going to take a lot of America banding together.

If something rubs you wrong, there's probably a reason.

The courts exist for a reason.

Don't allow that stuff from the higher levels to get to you, it' a distraction.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context

03:31 Reflections on Current Events and Personal Impact

09:10 Call to Action for Community Engagement

11:58 Emotional Resilience and Staying True to Values

Keywords

chaos, community, political division, immigration, personal values, democracy, social issues, military influence, geopolitical concerns, activism

Summary

In this episode of Veteran Success Story, host Will Yeske speaks with Juan Perez, a veteran coach and founder of Vet Rise Academy.

They discuss Juan's journey from military service to becoming a police officer and eventually a coach for veterans.

The conversation delves into the struggles of transitioning to civilian life, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for veterans to find their identity and purpose outside of the military.

Juan shares his insights on building a supportive community, the power of self-reflection, and the significance of setting boundaries.

They also explore the impact of social media on veterans and the importance of seeking help and accountability in personal growth.

Resources

VetRise Academy

Takeaways

Accept that you are the main character of your life.

You have to be your own hero.

Veterans often feel they don't belong in society.

Your environment is a product of your decisions.

Boundaries are for you to respect your own boundaries.

You can be a lighthouse for others.

Every day is a gift and should be treated as such.

Success leaves clues; pay attention to them.

Unbecoming is a crucial part of personal growth.

You have to stop being the tugboat and start being the lighthouse.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Veteran Coaching and Connection

07:45 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance

14:32 Transitioning from Military to Law Enforcement

21:46 The Impact of Military Experience on Personal Growth

27:43 The Cost of Growth: Investing in Yourself

34:05 Unbecoming: The Journey to Emotional Healing

40:46 The Power of Self-Awareness and Daily Choices

45:47 Navigating Identity: The Veteran Experience in Society

51:50 Accountability and Healing in the Veteran Community

55:08 Veterans and the Weight of Trauma

59:58 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth

01:04:21 Time Management and Energy Protection

01:11:25 Implementing Change and Building Habits

01:20:24 Introduction to Veteran Success Story and VetRise Academy

01:21:46 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

Keywords

veteran success, coaching, emotional intelligence, military transition, personal growth, community support, time management, self-reflection, boundaries, social media